Automated entry

ABSTRACT

A method for providing automated entry to a property includes placing a short-range wireless enabled lock box or a short-range wireless enabled automated door lock at or near a property. The property is listed as available on an application running on a portable device. Visitor requests to enter the properties are received. Automated entry information is provided to visitors that allows the visitors to enter the properties during specific times.

BACKGROUND

Renting or buying a place to live can be a time-consuming endeavor.Available properties are advertised, for example, by signs on or nearthe property, advertisements in printed media, in radio or intelevision, posting on internet sites and so on.

Renters and buyers often consider a number of criteria when selecting aplace such as location, price, square footage of inhabitable area,number of bedrooms or bathrooms, condition of property and so on. Arenter or buyer of a property often desires to make a detailed personalinspection of a property before making a decision to rent or purchase.

Viewing properties can be time consuming. Often times it requires makingarrangement with one or more of a listing agent, a property manager, alandlord, an owner and so on. Because of conflicting schedules, it maytake a while before some one with access to the property can meet theprospective buyer or renter at the property and conduct a tour. Whenthere are many properties to be inspected, this can be an onerous burdenon the time of the prospective purchaser or renter. It can also be anonerous burden on the listing agent, property manager, or etc. whenmultiple showings are required to obtain a rental or a purchase.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a system that provides automatedentry to a property in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 2 is an example of a simplified device display illustrating use ofa search facility of a system that provides automated entry to aproperty in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 3 is a simplified device display illustrating results of a searchin accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 4 is a device display illustrating a property detail display inaccordance with an implementation.

FIG. 5 is a device display illustrating use of an automated entryfacility of a system that provides automated entry to a property inaccordance with an implementation.

FIG. 6 is a simplified flowchart illustrating registration to use asystem that provides automated entry to a property in accordance with animplementation.

FIG. 7 is a simplified flowchart illustrating use of a system thatprovides automated entry to a property in accordance with an automatedentry module is located on portable devices implementation.

FIG. 8 is a simplified block diagram of the system shown in FIG. 1illustrating use of a sticker on a sign to identify a property inaccordance with an implementation.

FIG. 9 illustrates an interface used for inviting a prospect to visit aproperty in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 10 is a simplified block diagram illustrating making a propertyavailable to a prospect as an open house in accordance with animplementation.

FIG. 11 illustrates an interface for accepting information from aprospect in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 12 illustrates information sent to a prospect in accordance with animplementation.

FIG. 13 is a simplified block diagram illustrating preleasing schedulingproperties in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 14 illustrates an interface used for preleasing schedulingproperties in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 15 illustrates an interface used for organizing leads in accordancewith an implementation.

FIG. 16 illustrates an interface that allows alerts to be sent to anagent in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 17 is a simplified flowchart showing computer-assisted matching ofrenter to available properties for rent in accordance with animplementation.

FIG. 18 is a simplified flowchart illustrating a computer-assistedrental process in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 19 illustrates a renter questionnaire feature in accordance with animplementation.

FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 illustrate a property manager information feature inaccordance with an implementation.

FIG. 22, FIG. 23, FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 illustrate a residential scorefeature in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 26, FIG. 27, FIG. 28, FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 illustrates a past dueaccounts feature in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 31, FIG. 32, FIG. 33, FIG. 34, FIG. 35, FIG. 36, FIG. 37 and FIG.38 are simplified screen shots that illustrate an automated showing fora property in accordance with an implementation.

FIG. 39 is a simplified flowchart that illustrate an automated showingfor a property in accordance with an implementation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A system provides automated entry to a prospective buyer or renter ofproperties. The provision of automated entry eliminates the need toarrange a tour with an agent or landlord. The system automates the tourregistration process and property entry. This eliminates the need for anon-site representative of the property.

FIG. 1 shows a simplified block diagram of the system. An automatedentry module 16 is located on a portable device 12. For example,portable device 12 is a smart phone, another type of cellular phone, amedia player, a personal e-mail device, a personal data assistant(“PDA”), a handheld gaming device, a digital camera, a computer tablet,a laptop computer or any other type of device that can be transported toa property and that has processing capability sufficient to implementthe functionality of automated entry module 16.

Other portable devices, such as a portable device 13, can also host anautomated entry module similar to automated entry module 16. Suchportable devices can be connected, through a network 10, to one or moreservers, such as a server 11 shown in FIG. 1. Network 10 is, forexample, the Internet, a cellular phone network or any other type ofnetwork or combinations of network that allow a personal device toconnect to a server. Server 11, for example, contains a list ofproperties 17. List of properties 17 may include, for example,properties available to rent and/or properties available to purchase.List of properties 17 also, for example, contains information indicatingwhich properties are currently available for automated entry as well asinformation on how automated entry is to be provided. While list ofproperties 17 is shown within server 11, list of properties can bewithin portable device 12 or in any other location where it isaccessible to automate entry module 16. List of properties 17, forexample, is a part of a database that stores information on propertiessuch as visit logs and so on.

Automated entry module 16 allows a user to search through property list17 in order to find properties to search. Herein, user is usedsynonymously with visitor. One of the properties in property list 17 forwhich automated entry is enabled is represented in FIG. 1 by a property14. Information stored within property list 17, can be utilized byautomated entry module 16 to allow a user of portable device 12automated entry to property 14.

For example, a lock box 15 is shown in FIG. 1 representing one of theways automated entry module 16 allows a user of portable device 12 toaccess property 14. For example, lock box 15 contains a key that willopen a door allowing entry to property 14. To open lock box 15,automated entry module 16 can for example, depending upon variousimplementations of lock box 15, provide the user with a code to openlock box 15, provide portable device 12 with a signal to open lock box,provide portable device 12 with a pattern to display for opticalscanning by lock box 15.

Alternatively, automated entry module 16 can allow a user of portabledevice 12 to access property 14 in other ways. For example, automatedentry module 16 can provide instructions or codes to the user ofportable device 12 to enable the user of portable device 12 to open alock to allow access to property 14. Alternatively, portable device 12can function as a key to open lock box 15, or a door or entry way ofproperty 14. For example, portable device 15 transmits a signal using anappropriate protocol and radio signal (e.g., RFID signal or other nearfield communication) to direct lockbox 15 or a door on property 14 to beopened. Alternatively, portable device 12 can display a pattern for anoptical reader associated with a property door. For example, lock box 15is a short-range wireless enabled lock box and portable device 15transmits a short-range wireless interconnection signal to lockbox 15 ora short-range wireless enabled lock on a door on property 14. Forexample, the short-range wireless interconnection is a Bluetoothshort-range wireless interconnection. For example, automated entrymodule 16 is any application running on portable device 12 that enablesautomated entry. Such an automated entry application may include manyother features, such as allowing for search and application to rentproperties. Any application that facilitates or helps facilitatesautomated entry to properties is referred to herein as an automatedentry, regardless of the additional number or primacy of otherfunctionality provided by the automated entry application and regardlessof what the application might be called. As long as an applicationfacilitates or helps facilitates automated entry to properties thatapplication is an automated entry application.

As will be additionally described below, portable device 12 can receivethe ability to access property 14 at any suitable time, including, forexample, upon checking-in remotely. In this scenario, the entryinformation can be securely transmitted to portable device 12 through,for example, network 10, which in this case includes, for example, asecure wireless network. The ability to utilize portable device 12 togain access to property 14 allows a prospective buyer or renter usingdevice 12 to gain access to property 14 without the requirement of anappointment with a listing agent, broker, a landlord, property owner,property manager, or some other keeper of property 14.

FIG. 1 also shows a manager computing device 18 and a manager computingdevice 19. For example, applications running on manager computing device18 and a manager computing device 19 are used by property managers orproperty owners to provide manager input pertaining to properties. Themanager input is used by a rent system server program running on server11 that manages information pertaining to properties provided topotential renters searching for rental properties using rentalapplications operating on portable devices such as portable device 13.For example, manager computing device 18 and manager computing device 19are each a portable computer device, smart phone, desktop system, or anyother type of computing device capable of running a programming andcommunicating through network 10.

FIG. 2 is an example of a display of portable device 12 illustrating theability of portable device 12 to access property list 17 so that a userof portable device can search for properties to purchase or to rent.

For example, within a display 40 of portable device 12, search fieldsallow a user to specify search criteria for searching through list ofproperties 17. The representative search fields shown in FIG. 2 includea neighborhood search field 41, a number of bedrooms search field 42, anumber of bathrooms search field 43, a budget search field 44 and a petsearch field 45. These search fields are exemplary, as other searchfields such as square footage, information on available parking, numberof stories and so on can be included in addition to or instead of thesearch fields shown in FIG. 2.

In FIG. 2, the search fields receive user input by way of pull downselection menus, illustrated in FIG. 2 by an arrow being included withineach search field. Other methods, such as text boxes, check boxes and soon can be used to receive search criteria information from a user.

Based on search criteria received from the user of portable device 12,portable device 12 can display search results. For example, the searchcriteria are sent via a database query to server 11. For example, onlythe properties meeting the input criteria and which are available forautomated tour at the time of the search are returned as search results.For example, if list of properties 17 is within portable device 12, thislist may be searched without accessing a server. An example of returnedsearch results is provided in FIG. 3.

FIG. 3 shows, for example, pictures for five properties displayed ondisplay 40 of portable device 12. Each of a property picture 51, aproperty picture 52, a property picture 53, a property picture 54 and aproperty picture 55 is accompanied by additional information on theproperty as well as an arrow that allows additional detail to beaccessed. For example, the number of prospective renters who havealready viewed each displayed property and the number of renters whohave applied to rent each property 14 are included in the additionalinformation. FIG. 3 is only an example of search results format. Othersearch results format known in the art can be used based onimplementation requirements, display size and so on.

FIG. 4 shows a simplified version of a display that appears when anarrow associated with picture 53 is selected. Additional information onthat property is displayed. For example, a bigger picture 65 of theproperty is shown and/or a series of pictures of the property areavailable. FIG. 4 is only an example of information that can bedisplayed about the property. Many other types of information can bedisplayed. For example, the information may include listing informationprovided by listing agents, property managers, landlords and so on. Theinformation may be associated with one or more databases that arefurther associated with one or more servers or can include informationpreviously downloaded to portable device 12. The information can includepreset times and methods for touring one or more vacancies.

The user of portable device 12 can select a button 62 to access asummary of the property. The user of portable device 12 can select abutton 63 to access a description of the property. The user of portabledevice 12 can select a button 64 to access a map showing a location ofthe property. The user of portable device 12 can select a button 61 togo back to the previous screen shown in FIG. 3. To take a tour of theproperty, including obtaining physical access to the property, a user ofportable device can select a start tour now button 66.

FIG. 5 shows a simplified version of a display that appears when theuser of portable device 12 selects start tour now button 66. From themenu displayed in FIG. 5, the user of portable device 12 can return tothe previously displayed menu by selecting a back button 71. To checkin, in order to obtain access to the selected property, the user ofportable device 12 can select a button 72. To call a manager of theselected property, the user of portable device 12 can select a button73. For example, if the user of portable device 12 has questions,before, during or after viewing the property, the user of portabledevice 12 can call a phone number obtained by selecting button 73 shownin FIG. 5. If the property manager, owner or assistant is not availableto answer the call, the call will go to voice mail. Records of all voicemail calls are associated with the prospective property stored in adatabase on server 11.

To leave a comment to the manager of the selected property, the user ofportable device 12 can select a button 74 The ability to leave commentsallows the user of portable device 12 to provide feedback to listingagents, property managers, landlords, etc. about their experiencevisiting the selected property.

For example, upon selecting button 72, portable device 12 notifiesserver 11. Server 11 then immediately sends an entry notification, suchas an e-mail, text message or automated voicemail to the propertymanager and/or owner. For example, the entry notification includes aname and contact information for the user of portable device 12. Server11 also, for example, records in a database the entry of the user ofportable device. The database keeps a log of user entries, e-mails,texts, voicemails and other contacts for each property, which areaccessible by property managers and owners for their property.

To submit an application pertaining to the selected property, the userof portable device 12 can select a button 75. A fee associated with theapplication is shown on button 75. To return to a window showing searchresults, the user of portable device 12 can select a button 76. Toreport a problem, the user of portable device 12 can select a button 77.

FIG. 5 is only an example of a menu for a tour of the property. Othermenus with additional and/or alternative features can be implemented onportable device 12 and displayed on display 40.

In some implementations, it is required that a user register beforebeing allowed automated entry to properties. For example, FIG. 7 shows aregistration process required for a user of portable device 12 to obtainautomated entry to properties.

In a block 21, the registration process is started. In a block 22, userinformation is obtained from the user. For example, the user informationcan include identification information such as name, contactinformation, current residence, birth date, login identification andpassword, drivers license and so on. This information can be used, forexample, in a block 23 to verify the user. The verification can be assimple as sending a confirmation e-mail, or can be more complex,including, for example, running a credit check and checking references.In addition to identification information, in a block 24, paymentinformation is obtained. This payment information can be, for example,credit card information, debit card information, bank information orsome other information that will allow payment to be obtained from theuser of portable device 12 when services are rendered. For example, theinformation obtained from the user is stored in server 11.

In a block 25, the information obtained from the user of portable device12 is checked to determine if it is sufficient to qualify the user ofportable device 12 as approved for automated access of properties. Ifso, in a block 26 the approval is recorded in a database located, forexample, in server 11. In a block 27, the registration process iscompleted. This completion of the registration process includes, forexample, providing a message to the user of portable device 12indicating whether or not the user of portable device 12 is approved forautomated access of properties.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a process to provide automated entry toproperty 14 to the user of portable device 12. In a block 31, the userof portable device 12 selects to view the property. In a block 32, acheck is made to confirm automated entry is available for the selectedproperty.

If automated entry is not available, in a block 38, the automated entryprocess is completed. Ending of the automated entry process may include,for example, displaying or making available to the user of portabledevice 12 contact information to a landlord, property manager, owner orreal estate agent for the selected property. For example, auto-entry maybe available only during specified hours (e.g., 8 AM to 6 PM Mondaythrough Saturday). If the prospective buyer or renter requests to viewat a time when the property is unavailable for viewing, the renter/buyerwill be directed to return when the property is available for viewing.For example, a property manager or owner or other keeper of the propertysets viewing hours which are stored in server 11.

If in block 32 it is confirmed that automated entry is available for theselected property, in a block 33 a request for payment is made. Forexample, a small fee may be charged for each entry made using automatedentry. This charge can be made or authorized here or later in theautomated entry process, or not at all in some implementations.

In a block 34, a check is made to see whether payment has been made orauthorized. Payment may be made, for example, in accordance with paymentinformation received during the registration process illustrated in FIG.6. If in block 34 it is determined that payment has not been made orauthorized, in block 38, the automated entry process is completed.

If in block 34 it is determined that payment has been made orauthorized, in a block 35 a location of the selected property isdisplayed. For example, the location of the selected property may bedisplayed along with an indication of the current location of portabledevice 12. The location of portable device 12 can be determined, forexample, using a positioning system. The positioning system can includeany suitable system such as, for example, a global positioning system(“GPS”), or another type of positioning system that utilizes a suitabletriangulation technique to determine geographic coordinates of portabledevice 12. For example, such a triangulation technique can determinevarious measurements (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio (“SNR”) or signalstrength measurements) of, for example, a network signal (e.g., acellular telephone network signal, a wireless network access point or“hot spot,” or any other suitable network signal) associated withportable device 12 to perform triangulation.

In a block 36, a determination is made as to whether the location ofportable device 12, for example, as determined above, is near to thelocation of the selected property. If portable device 12 is locatedwithin a predetermined distance of the selected property, in a block 37,portable device 12 grants automated access to the property to the userof portable device 12. The entry can be granted using lock box 15 orusing any other means as described above in the discussion of FIG. 1 orby some other method such as, portable device 12 transmitting a signalusing an appropriate protocol and radio (e.g., Bluetooth signal or othernear field communication) to direct a door to be opened, or portabledevice 12 displaying a pattern for an optical reader associated with adoor or simply displaying a code to open lock box 15 containing a keywhich can be used to unlock a door on the selected property.

For cases where a prospective renter or buyer does not have a smartphone, the property manager or owner or other keeper of the property canstill provide for remote entry. For example, a number listed on a forsale or for rent sign can be dialed by the prospective renter or buyer.The property manager or owner or other keeper of the property or anassistant can obtain, for example, identification and credit cardinformation over the phone, log the obtained information in a databasefor the property and issue a one-time pass code that will allow theprospective renter or buyer access to the property. In this way, arecord of the visit to the property by the renter will be in thedatabase and there is no need for the property manager or owner or otherkeeper of the property to travel to the property to let the prospectiverenter or buyer in to see the property.

For example, data and/or statistics about user of portable device 12 arecollected by automated entry module and stored either locally onportable device 12 or remotely on server 11 or some other electronicdevice. Such data and statistics can include information such as thedate and time the user of portable device 12 entered a property, theamount of time spent at the property, the amount of time required toprocess a rental application and so on. This provides listing agents,property managers, landlords, etc. with indications about why particularproperties aren't being rented or sold. This also allows owners andproperty managers, etc., to accumulate detailed statistics on propertyactivity such as, how many views, how many interests (click visit), howmany unlocks and so on.

In one implementation, a property owner or manager or other keeper ofthe property can generate a one-time entry code manually in the portal.This is useful, for example, when after speaking with a potential renterover the phone, the property owner or manager or other keeper of theproperty desires to let the potential renter view the home withoutexpending time and gas on a physical trip to the property.

The layers used—e.g., registration, GPS, one-time code, etc.—allow forscreening and increased security for the process by which prospectiverenters and buyers view properties.

For example, once a potential renter or buyer has selected a property totour, additional nearby properties also available to tour may bepresented to the user. In this case, it would not be necessary for apotential renter or buyer to begin the search process again in order totour additional nearby properties.

For example, automated entry module 16 may be embodied in a computerprogram product that includes a non-transitory machine readable and/orusable medium. For example, such a computer usable medium may consist ofa read-only memory device, such as a CD ROM disk or conventional ROMdevice, or a random-access memory, such as a hard drive device or acomputer diskette, or flash memory device having a computer readableprogram code stored thereon.

FIG. 8 is a simplified block diagram of the system shown in FIG. 1illustrating use of a sticker 82 placed on a sign 81 to identify aproperty. For example, sticker 82 includes a bar code or some otherencoded or unencoded indicium that is an identifier of the property.Alternately, for example, sticker 82 is not present but the Identifieris placed directly on sign 81.

For example, when portable device 12 is equipped with a scanner 83,sticker 82 can be scanned to obtain the identifier. Alternately, theidentifier can be obtained from sticker 82 by some other means. Forexample, the identifier could be a number that a user of portable device12 reads and manually enters into portable device 12.

A query to a list of properties 17, stored, for example, in server 11 orportable device 12, can be used to obtain property detail, such as theadditional information disclosed in the display shown in FIG. 4. Forexample, to take a tour of the property, including obtaining physicalaccess to the property, a user of portable device can select a starttour now button 66, shown in FIG. 4. This allows a user of portabledevice 12 to instantly obtain information about a property, and instantaccess to the property, all from scanning an identifier on a signlocated on the property.

For example, sticker 82 can include an identifier that is associatedwith lock box 15, so that sign 81 (or a new sign with sticker 82) andlock box 15 can simultaneously be easily moved together to a newproperty with minimal reconfiguration.

FIG. 9 illustrates an interface used for inviting a visitor (e.g., aprospective renter or buyer) to view a property. Such an invitation canbe used to advertise an open house or to notify of the opportunity toview a property when it becomes available to view. The invitation can beinitiated by a marketer of the property such as, for example, a propertyowner or a property manager. In an area 111, information about thevisitor can be filled in and the invitation sent, for example, by textmessage, e-mail, instant messaging, or some other form of communication.

FIG. 10 is a simplified block diagram illustrating making a propertyavailable to a prospective renter or buyer (i.e., a visitor) as an openhouse when the visitor responds. In a block 131, the system requests andaccepts identification from a visitor who wants to view a property. Aninterface for accepting information provided to the visitor isillustrated in FIG. 11.

In FIG. 11, a visitor can enter credit card information in an area 91 ofan interface shown, for example, on a web page, mobile phone applicationor other interface available to the visitor. Alternatively, otheridentification can be used such as a driver's license, bank card, or soon.

In a block 132, shown in FIG. 10, in response to receivingidentification, the visitor receives from server 11 a communicationproviding information on how to access the property. For example, thecommunication can be a text transmission, an e-mail, an instant message,or some other form of communication. For example, FIG. 12 shows anexample of a text message 95 sent to a user that indicates a lock boxcode and a time of expiration. This information will be sufficient toallow the visitor to enter and tour the property.

In a block 133, shown in FIG. 10, the server 11 communicates withlockbox 15 to allow the visitor to enter during the specified timeperiod and before the time of expiration. In a block 134, a viewingalert is sent to the owner or other manager of the property indicatingthe property has been viewed. For example, the viewing alert can be inthe form of an e-mail, a text message, an instant message, or some otherform of communication.

In a block 135, the visitor can be invited to view other properties. Thecommunication can be in the form of an e-mail, a text message, aninstant message, or some other form of communication. This makes allthese other properties open for viewing by the visitor. Additionally,other communications, such as an invitation to complete a survey can besent. For example, FIG. 12 shows a text message 96 sent to a visitorinviting the visitor to complete a survey.

FIG. 13 is a simplified block diagram illustrating preleasing schedulingof properties. This allows a visitor to express an interest in visitinga property before it is available for inspection. For example, aproperty may have renters that have given notice that they will not berenewing their lease. Viewing will not be allowed until the property isvacated and the property manager or owner has placed the property incondition for showing. The visitor may express an interest in viewingthe property when it becomes available for showing. In a block 101, theproperty manager or owner sets up auto showing on a property currentlynot available for showing. This is done, for example, using an interfacesuch as that shown in FIG. 14.

In FIG. 14, each property includes a selection that allows or disallowsauto showing. For example, in an entry 105, a user has not yet activatedauto showing, but can do so by selecting the button labeled activateauto showing. For example, in an entry 105, a user has activated autoshowing, but can de-activate auto showing by selecting the buttonlabeled deactivate auto showing. Area 107 sets out lockboxes availableto be used by the owner for various properties.

In a block 102, shown in FIG. 13, if the visitor expresses interest in aproperty not currently available for showing, the interest is noted tobe acted upon when the property comes available for showing.

In a block 103, the visitor is notified when the property is availablefor showing. For example, the notification can be by a texttransmission, an e-mail, an instant message, or some other form ofcommunication. For example, the communication can be similar to that setout in area 92 of FIG. 11.

The interface shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 is part of a generalscheduling feature. Using the interface, an agent can enable a propertyfor schedule showings during certain time periods. The agent can alsoset customized pre-screening questions, and then enable a property forscheduling. If a visitor (e.g., a potential renter or buyer) submits arequest to schedule a visit to the property, any agent in the system canclaim the lead and the visitor will receive a reminder one day and onehour in advance. As long as the visitor confirms the visit, the agentwill go and show the property.

FIG. 15 illustrates an interface 150 used for organizing leads. A userof the system, i.e., an agent, can view leads claimed by the agent byselecting a tab 155, and can view unclaimed leads that are available tobe claimed by the agent by selecting a tab 156. An administrator canadditionally view all open leads, by selecting a tab 157, and can viewclosed leads, by selecting a tab 158.

Interface 150 in FIG. 15 shows an administrator view of open leads. Anentry 151 shows an entry 151 that is unassigned, and thus available tobe claimed by an agent. An entry 152, an entry 153 and an entry 154 havealready been claimed by agents. A phone contact for the property, anassigned agent, a property status, last activity date and notes on thelast activity are all displayed by interface 150. Interface 150 can beused to link data that pertains to a number of agent showings, visitorviewings, and time a property is on the market.

As illustrated by FIG. 16, once an agent has responsibility for aproperty, communications about the property can be routed to the agent.In FIG. 16, an interface 160 allows an administrator to indicate whatcommunications will be forwarded to an agent. In an area 161, the agentfor any property can be selected to receive one or more of the followingtypes of communications: call by phone, SMS (text) messages, e-mail. Inaddition, check-in alerts can also be sent to an agent. In an area 161,the administrator can select for which properties communications will besent to the agents for the properties. This alert feature allowsproperty managers flexibility about how much communication an assignedagent receives about a property.

FIG. 17 is a simplified flowchart showing computer-assisted matching ofrenter to available properties for rent. A renter module 173 withinportable device 13 (shown in FIG. 1) or within a personal computer orserver utilized by a potential renter of property to seek properties torent. A manager module 171 within manager computing device 16 (shown inFIG. 1) or within a server is utilized by a property manager to manageproperties available for rent. A system module 172 within server 11(shown in FIG. 1) interacts with renter module 173 and manager module171 to match potential renters to properties available for rent. Herebelow property manager is used to mean any person that manages propertyfor rent. A property manager may be for example, the owner of theproperty, a real estate agent or other person charged with managing orlisting (e.g., a listing agent) a rental property, or any other personunder the employ of such an owner or real estate agent or other personthat manages property for rent.

In a block 174, manager module 171 receives property manager input froma property manager that is renting a property. The property managerinput pertains to rental criteria for the property.

In a block 183, renter module 173 receives a renter registration of apotential renter that would like to view the property. In a block 184,renter module 173 receives from the potential renter answers toqualification questions. For example, FIG. 19 shows an interactivewindow interface 199 controlled by renter module 173. The questionsasked as shown in FIG. 19 represent typical information the potentialrenter is requested to answer.

In a block 177 shown in FIG. 17, system module 172 electronicallyrequests and obtains credit information pertaining to the potentialrenter through a credit bureau such as TransUnion credit bureau, someother credit bureau or some other source of credit information. Systemmodule 172 also receives from manager module 171 rental criteria for theproperty the potential renter would like to view. In a block 178, systemmodule 172 determines, based on information obtained from renter module173 and the credit information from the credit bureau, whether thepotential renter meets the rental criteria for the property as receivedby manager module 171 from manager module 171.

In a block 180, when the potential renter meets the rental criteria, thesystem module communicates to renter module 173 allowing, in a block185, the renter to view the property. In a block 175, manager module 171reviews pass/fail showings that include showings allowed by systemmodule 172 and that includes showings not allowed by system module 172because the potential renter failed to meet the rental criteria for theproperty.

For example, FIG. 20 shows a window 200 displayed to a property managerby manager module 171. For each property, the property manager is shownsuch information as a move in date, a name, contact information, viewingdate and other tracked information about potential renters of theproperty. For example, in a match column, a green dot indicates thepotential renter is qualified to view the property, while a red dotindicates the potential renter is not qualified to view the property.

In a block 176 shown in FIG. 17, manager module 171, eitherautomatically or in response to input from a property manager, findsother properties that can be recommend to the potential renter and forwhich the potential renter meets the rental criteria for the property.These other properties are sent to system module 172. For example, FIG.21 shows a pop-up window interface 210 that manager module 171 displaysto a property manager allowing the property manager to send a message toa potential renter inviting the potential renter to view otherproperties. The pop-up window interface 210 identifies the number ofproperties that are a match for a potential renter and allows theproperty manager to instruct the system send a link to each of theseproperties to the potential renter. For example, if the potential renterapplied with one or more other applicants, the system will allow theother applicants to also receive links to properties they qualify for.

In a block 182 shown in FIG. 17, system module 172 communicates to thepotential renter, for example, via SMS text message, electronic mail, orsome other messaging or communication system, to inform the potentialrenter of the properties for which the potential renter meets the rentalcriteria for the property. In a block 186, renter module 173 allows thepotential renter to review available property for which the potentialrenter is qualified to view. In block 185, the renter module 173 allowsthe potential renter to view a selected property. For example, thepotential renter views the property

In a block 179, when the potential renter fails to meet the rentalcriteria to view the property, system module 172, in a block 181,reviews the information obtained from renter module 173 and the creditinformation from the credit bureau to determine what other propertiesare available for rent for which the potential renter meets the rentalcriteria. These property matches are sent to renter module 173. In block186, renter module 173 allows the potential renter to review availableproperty for which the potential renter is qualified to view. In a block185, the renter module 173 allows the potential renter to view aselected property. For example, the viewing process is as describedabove where the automated entry information is provided to the potentialrenter that allows the potential renter to enter the property. Forexample, the automated entry information includes code information thatis valid during a specified period of time. The automated entryinformation is provided automatically to the potential renter withoutthe potential renter request requiring approval by any human decisionmaker. For example, the entry information is used to open a lock box oran automated door lock at or near a property. When the potential renterprovides the code information to the lock box or automated door lockwithin the specified period of time, the lock box or automated door lockopens to facilitate automated entry to the property. Alternatively, theentry information is entered into a short-range wireless enabled devicewithin the specified period of time to enable the short-range wirelessenabled device to provide an open signal to a short-range wirelessenabled lock box or a short-range wireless enabled automated door lockusing a short-range wireless interconnection, such as the Bluetoothshort-range wireless interconnection.

FIG. 18 is a simplified flowchart illustrating a computer-assistedrental application process in accordance with an implementation. In ablock 187, manager module 171 receives from a property manager, rentalcriteria for a rental application for the property. For example, FIG. 22shows a sample interface manager that includes an area 220 where theproperty manager can set credit score ranges for which the applicationwill be automatically denied, for which the application will beconditionally accepted and for which the application will beautomatically accepted. An area 221 allows the property managers to addconditions for acceptance. For example, as illustrated in area 230 ofFIG. 23, each conditional statement has three pull-down menus. Forexample, pull down menu 231 has the options: “Rent”, “Income”, “Deposit”and “agent approval”. For example, pull down menu 232 has the options:“1×”, “1.5×”, “2×”, “2.5×”, “3×”, “3.5×”, “4×”, “4.5×”, “5×”, “5.5×” and“6×”. For example, pull down menu 233 has the options: “Rent”, “Income”,“Deposit” and “agent approval”. For example, this allows conditions suchas: If “Income” equals “3×” “Rent”. Other such conditional statementscan be included where the computer implemented memory module allows theproperty manager to modify criteria for conditional statements.

For example, FIG. 25 shows an entry area 250 where a property managercan enter detail information about the rental unit such as the number ofbedrooms the number of bathrooms, unit square footage, the rent permonth and the required deposit.

For example, FIG. 26 shows an entry area 260 where a property managercan specify past due account information that will result in denial ofan application, conditional acceptance and approval, as well as a pastdue amount threshold. For example, the property manager can excludecertain types of debt such as medical debt and student loan debt, etc.For example, a past due amount threshold indicates a threshold belowwhich past due amounts are not counted as a past due account. Managermodule 171 is configured to receive a first range of values thatindicates approval, a second range of values that indicates denial and athird value range that indicates conditionally conditional approvalbased on other factors.

For example, FIG. 27 shows an entry area 270 where a property managercan specify repossession information that will result in denial of anapplication, conditional acceptance and approval, as well as a past dueamount threshold. For example, a property manager can elect to excludemortgage foreclosures. Manager module 171 is configured to receive afirst range of values that indicates approval, a second range of valuesthat indicates denial and a third value range that indicatesconditionally conditional approval based on other factors.

For example, FIG. 28 shows an entry area 280 where a property managercan specify collection accounts information that will result in denialof an application, conditional acceptance and approval, as well as apast due amount threshold. For example, the property manager can excludecertain types of debt such as medical debt and student loan debt, etc.For example, a collection age threshold indicates a threshold beyondwhich collection accounts are not counted as a past due account. Managermodule 171 is configured to receive a first range of values thatindicates approval, a second range of values that indicates denial and athird value range that indicates conditionally conditional approvalbased on other factors.

For example, FIG. 29 shows an entry area 290 where a property managercan specify collection amounts information that will result in denial ofan application, conditional acceptance and approval, as well as a pastdue amount threshold. Manager module 171 is configured to receive afirst range of values that indicates approval, a second range of valuesthat indicates denial and a third value range that indicatesconditionally conditional approval based on other factors.

For example, FIG. 30 shows an entry area 300 where a property managercan specify a potential renter income to debt ratio that will result indenial of an application, conditional acceptance and approval, as wellas a past due amount threshold. Manager module 171 is configured toreceive a first range of values that indicates approval, a second rangeof values that indicates denial and a third value range that indicatesconditionally conditional approval based on other factors.

In a block 190, server module 172 presents an online rental applicationfor a property to a potential renter after the potential renter hasviewed the property. For example, FIG. 24 shows a window 240 of a partof an online application filled out by a potential renter. The window240 includes entries where the potential renter indicates the income thepotential renter receives. In a block 195, renter module 173 receivesthe input to the rental application from the potential renter. In ablock 191, server module 172 requests and obtains credit information,criminal history information and eviction information pertaining to thepotential renter through a credit bureau such as TransUnion creditbureau and/or some other information source. In a block 192, servermodule 172 compares credit information, criminal history information andeviction information pertaining to the potential renter withrequirements of the rental criteria received from manager module 171.

In a block 193, system module 172 uses credit information, criminalhistory information and eviction information from the potential renterto find other properties the potential renter is qualified to rent. In ablock 188, manager module 171 receives notification from server module172 whether the credit information, criminal history information andeviction information pertaining to the potential renter meetrequirements of the rental criteria received from manager module 171. Ifthe requirements are met, the property manager is informed and theproperty manager has the option to approve the application for rentingthe property. The property manager is also informed of the otherproperties the potential renter is qualified to rent.

In a block 189, manager module 171 allows the property manager to invitethe potential renter to consider the other identified properties thepotential renter is qualified to rent. In a block 194, system module 172communicates to the potential renter, for example, via SMS text message,electronic mail, or some other messaging or communication system, toinvite the potential renter to view the identified properties. In ablock 196, renter module 173 allows the potential renter to view orapply for the other identified properties the potential renter isqualified to rent.

FIGS. 31 through 38 are screenshots illustrating how a prospectiverenter or purchaser of a property is coached through an automatedshowing of the property. FIG. 31 shows a screenshot 310 on a smartphone, tablet computing device, portable device or another type ofcomputing device. Screenshot 310 indicates completion of theregistration process to view a property. In a display area 311,information about the property is displayed. In a display area 312, auser can select the “Choose When” option to schedule a time to view theproperty. A button 313 allows the user to proceed to a next screenshotof an interface.

FIG. 32 shows a screenshot 320 that provides a map to a property where ashowing will occur. In a display area 321, the address property isgiven. In a display area 322, a map to the property is shown. A user mayselect button 323 when the user is at the property.

FIG. 33 shows a screen shot 330 that is shown to a user when the user isat the property location. An icon or other information is shown in adisplay area 331. A user can select a “YES” button 333 to indicate thatthe user has already gained entry to view the property. The user canselect a “NO” button 332 to indicate that the user has not yet gainedentry to view the property.

FIG. 34 shows a screen shot 340 that includes a display area 341 thatindicates a location of a short-range wireless enabled lock box or ashort-range wireless enabled door lock. For example, the short-rangewireless interconnection used is a Bluetooth short-range wirelessinterconnection or another short-range wireless interconnection that canbe used to communicate to an appropriately enabled lock box or doorlock. A location 342 is a location where a user can enter an identifyingnumber, such as a serial number, of the short-range wireless enabledlock box or the short-range wireless enabled door lock. This istypically found written on the short-range wireless enabled lock box orthe short-range wireless enabled door lock. Alternatively, the smartphone or other short-range wireless enabled device can obtain thisinformation through a short-range wireless interconnection between theshort-range wireless enabled device and the short-range wireless enabledlock box or the short-range wireless enabled door lock.

A connect button 343 can be selected by the user when the user is readyto connect to the short-range wireless enabled lock box in order to openthe lock box to obtain a key, or to connect to the short-range wirelessenabled door lock to unlock the door for entry to the property.

For example, a user pin or other additional code may be additionallyrequired for access.

For example, a property specific authorization code is sent to theuser's short-range wireless enabled device when the user is authorizedto enter the property. For example, the authorization is valid onlyduring a specific period of time. In addition, for example, additionaluser identification information may be required before the short-rangewireless enabled device facilitates opening the lock box to obtain akey, or to connect to the short-range wireless enabled door lock tounlock the door for entry to the property. The user identificationinformation may be, for example, a passcode, a pin, a user phone number,or some other identifying information.

FIG. 35 shows a screen shot 350 that appears after the identificationcode is sent through the Bluetooth protocol to the short-range wirelessenabled lock box or the short-range wireless enabled door lock to openthe short-range wireless enabled lock box or the short-range wirelessenabled door lock. In a display area 351, any general or specialinstructions or permissions concerning viewing the property areprovided. A button 352 is selected to view a next viewing screen.

FIG. 36 shows a screen shot 360 that appears after button 352 isselected. In a display area 361, any general or special instructions orpermissions concerning closing the property are provided. A button 362is selected to view a next viewing screen.

FIG. 37 shows a screen shot 370 that optionally appears after button 362is selected, or at some later time. In a display area 371 and in adisplay area 372, the user is invited to answer survey questions or toprovide additional information or feedback about the property or aboutthe experience viewing the property. A button 373 is used to submit thesurvey.

FIG. 38 shows a screen shot 380 that optionally appears after button 372is selected, after button 362 is selected, or at some later time. In adisplay area 381, information about the property is displayed. A usermay select button 382 to bring up an application for the property. Auser may select button 383 to return to another menu provided by theautomated entry system.

FIG. 39 is a simplified flowchart of the process illustrated in FIGS. 31through 38. In a block 391, a lock box or a door lock is placed at ornear a property. For example, the lock box or the door lock is ashort-range wireless enabled lock box or door lock. In a block 392, anautomated entry application running on a short-range wireless enableddevice receives registration information from a visitor who desires touse the automated system for visiting properties. The registrationinformation includes identification of the visitor.

In a block 393, the automated entry application allows the visitor toschedule an automated showing of the property at a visitor selected timeand date. In a block 394, a central property application running on aserver enables the visitor to unlock the short-range wireless enabledlock box or the short-range wireless enabled automated door lock at thevisitor selected time and date. This is done, for example, by sending tothe automated entry application running on the short-range wirelessenabled device an authorization for the visitor to unlock theshort-range wireless enabled lock box or the short-range wirelessenabled automated door lock at the visitor selected time and date.Alternatively, or in addition, the short-range wireless enabled lock boxor the short-range wireless enabled automated door lock can beprogrammed to allow the visitor to unlock the short-range wirelessenabled lock box or the short-range wireless enabled automated door lockat the visitor selected time and date.

In a block 395, the short-range wireless enabled device provides to thevisitor location information pertaining to the property.

In a block 396, the short-range wireless enabled device obtains anidentifying number of the short-range wireless enabled lock box or theshort-range wireless enabled automated door lock. This is done, forexample, by the visitor entering the identifying number through aninterface of the short-range wireless enabled device. Alternatively,this is done, for example, via a short-range wireless enabled connectionbetween the short-range wireless enabled device and the short-rangewireless enabled lock box or the short-range wireless enabled automateddoor lock. For example, identifying number is a serial number of theshort-range wireless enabled lock box or the short-range wirelessenabled automated door lock.

In a block 397, the short-range wireless enabled device sends a wirelesssignal to the short-range wireless enabled lock box or the short-rangewireless enabled automated door lock to unlock the short-range wirelessenabled lock box or the short-range wireless enabled automated doorlock. In a block 398, the visitor is provided with instructions forleaving the property, including a reminder to lock up.

In a block 399, the short-range wireless enabled device obtains from thevisitor survey information pertaining to visitor interest in theproperty. In a block 400, the automated entry application provides thevisitor an opportunity to apply to rent the property.

The foregoing discussion discloses and describes merely exemplarymethods and implementations. As will be understood by those familiarwith the art, the disclosed subject matter may be embodied in otherspecific forms without departing from the spirit or characteristicsthereof. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to beillustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention, which isset forth in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for providing automated entry toproperties, comprising: placing a short-range wireless enabled lock boxor a short-range wireless enabled automated door lock at or near aproperty; making the property available to invited visitors; providingan application interface of an application running on a computing systemto a property manager, the property manager being a manager or an ownerof the property, the application interface prompting the propertymanager to enter a visitor name and contact information for a visitor,wherein upon receipt of the visitor name and contact information, theapplication provides the visitor with an invitation to receive automatedentry information that is valid during a specified period of time sothat the visitor can enter the property by themselves, the invitationbeing delivered to the visitor electronically, the invitation beingapplicable only to the property and the invitation requestingidentification from the visitor; upon the application receiving andconfirming identification information from the visitor, providing, bythe application, automated entry authorization information to thevisitor that allows the visitor to enter the property using ashort-range wireless interconnection, wherein the automated entryauthorization information is valid during the specified period of time;upon the visitor using a short-range wireless enabled device within thespecified period of time to provide an open signal to the short-rangewireless enabled lock box or the short-range wireless enabled automateddoor lock using the short-range wireless interconnection, theshort-range wireless enabled lock box or the short-range wirelessenabled automated door lock opening to facilitate automated entry to theproperty; and, providing notification, originating from the short-rangewireless enabled lock box or the short-range wireless enabled automateddoor lock, to the property manager when the visitor enters the property.2. A method as in claim 1, wherein the property manager uses theapplication interface to initiate the invitation.
 3. A method as inclaim 1, wherein the property manager is an owner of the property.
 4. Amethod as in claim 1, wherein the automated entry information isprovided via a text message or an e-mail.
 5. A method as in claim 1,wherein the visitor is provided opportunities to enter other properties.6. A method as in claim 1, wherein the short-range wirelessinterconnection is a Bluetooth short-range wireless interconnection. 7.A method as in claim 1, wherein a serial number for the short-rangewireless enabled lock box or the short-range wireless enabled automateddoor lock is received by the short-range wireless enabled device toallow the short-range wireless enabled device to provide an open signalto the short-range wireless enabled lock box or the short-range wirelessenabled automated door lock, the serial number being entered by thevisitor or being received from the short-range wireless enabled lock boxor the short-range wireless enabled automated door lock via short-rangewireless interconnection.
 8. A method as in claim 1, additionallycomprising: listing a second property as available for scheduling whenthe second property is not ready for viewing and there are no timesadvertised anywhere when the second property will be ready and availablefor viewing; providing a selection option which a visitor using theportable device can select to indicate a desire to enter the secondproperty; upon the application receiving a visitor request to enter thesecond property, notifying the visitor once the second property is readyfor viewing and there are times when the property will be ready andavailable for viewing.
 9. A method for providing automated entry toproperties, comprising: making properties available for viewing toinvited visitors; providing an application interface of an applicationrunning on a computing system to a property manager, the propertymanager being a manager, a listing agent or an owner of the property,the application interface prompting the property manager to enter avisitor name and contact information for a visitor, wherein upon receiptof the visitor name and contact information, the application providesthe visitor with an invitation to receive automated entry informationincluding code information that is valid during a specified period oftime so that the visitor can enter a property by themselves, theinvitation being delivered to the visitor electronically, the invitationbeing applicable only to the property and the invitation requestingidentification from the visitor; placing a short-range wireless enabledinterconnection lock box or a short-range wireless enabled automateddoor lock at or near each property; upon the application receiving andconfirming identification information for the visitor, providing, by theapplication, automated entry information to the visitor that allows thevisitor to use a short-range wireless interconnection to enter theproperty, the automated entry information being valid during thespecified period of time; upon the visitor using a short-range wirelessenabled device to provide an open signal to the short-range wirelessenabled lock box or the short-range wireless enabled automated door lockat the property within the specified period of time, the short-rangewireless enabled lock box or the short-range wireless enabled automateddoor lock opening to facilitate automated entry to the property;tracking visitor activities at the properties; and making informationabout the properties available within a user interface.
 10. A method asin claim 9, wherein a serial number for the short-range wireless enabledlock box or the short-range wireless enabled automated door lock isreceived by the short-range wireless enabled device to allow theshort-range wireless enabled device to provide an open signal to theshort-range wireless enabled lock box or the short-range wirelessenabled automated door lock, the serial number being entered by thevisitor or being received from the short-range wireless enabled lock boxor the short-range wireless enabled automated door lock via short-rangewireless interconnection.
 11. A method as in claim 9, additionallycomprising: allowing an administrator to select which types ofcommunications about a property are forwarded to an agent assigned tothe property.
 12. A method as in claim 11, wherein the types ofcommunications about the property include at least one of the following:a phone call; a text message; an e-mail.
 13. A method as in claim 9,wherein making the information about the properties available includesallowing agents to claim leads for the properties.
 14. A method as inclaim 9, wherein making the information about the properties availableincludes displaying a status for each property.
 15. A method as in claim9, wherein making the information about the properties availableincludes displaying identification of an agent that is assigned to eachproperty.
 16. A method as in claim 9, wherein making the informationabout the properties available includes displaying contact informationfor each property.
 17. A method as in claim 16, wherein making theinformation about the properties available includes displaying a lastactivity date for each property.
 18. A method as in claim 9, whereinmaking the information about the properties available includesdisplaying a last activity for each property.
 19. A method as in claim9, wherein the short-range wireless interconnection is a Bluetoothshort-range wireless interconnection.
 20. A method as in claim 9,additionally comprising: listing a second property as available forscheduling when the second property is not ready for viewing and thereare no times advertised anywhere when the second property will be readyand available for viewing; providing a selection option which a visitorusing the portable device can select to indicate a desire to enter thesecond property; upon the application receiving the visitor request toenter the second property, notifying the visitor once the secondproperty is ready for viewing and there are times when the property willbe ready and available for viewing.